In-Person vs. Virtu-Clinic
Effective support in the format that works best for you
When starting one of our DBT programs, a common question is whether virtual or in-person therapy is “better.”
We’ve found the answer is often more about personal preference or learning style.
Both virtual and in-person DBT programs can be highly effective. What matters most is finding the format that helps you stay engaged, attend consistently, and fully participate in programming.
For some people, that’s in-person care. For others, a virtual program makes therapy more accessible and sustainable.
During the intake process, our team helps determine which option may be the best fit based on your clinical needs, preferences, schedule, and program availability.
Both options offer structured support
Whether you participate virtually or in person, you still receive:
- Structured DBT programming
- Skills-based group therapy
- Support from a master’s-level or doctoral-level clinician trained in DBT
- Practical coping tools for daily life
- A supportive peer environment
- A consistent treatment structure focused on growth and stability
The goal of both formats is the same: Helping you build skills to better manage emotions, reduce harmful behaviors, and navigate life more effectively.
Virtual DBT: Flexible, accessible, and effective
DBT through our Virtu-Clinic allows you to participate in group from home while still receiving structured support and group-based care.
For many individuals, virtual therapy removes barriers that can make it harder to stay consistent with treatment.
Virtual programming may be especially helpful if:
- Transportation or distance makes in-person care difficult
- Busy schedules make commuting stressful
- Anxiety or avoidance make leaving home challenging
- You’ve struggled to attend outpatient therapy consistently
- You benefit from practicing skills in your real-life environment
- Executive functioning challenges impact follow-through
Many clients are surprised by how connected and supportive virtual groups can feel. Over time, group members often build strong peer relationships and become comfortable practicing skills together online.
These sessions are treated the same as in-person sessions, with designated break times, and an expectation that group members are actively engaged – even if it’s from their couch or comfy chair.
In order to participate in virtual services, you need a secure, private location, secure internet, ability to have camera on at all times during the entire group session, and be physically in the state of Minnesota.
In-person DBT: Structure and separation from daily stressors
Some clients feel more focused and grounded in an in-person setting.
Being physically present in a therapy environment can help create:
- More routine and accountability
- Separation from home stressors or distractions
- Easier face-to-face interaction
- A stronger sense of structure during treatment
For some people, having a dedicated space outside the home for therapy improves focus and consistency.
What the research and our outcomes show
At MHS, both virtual and in-person DBT programs lead to meaningful improvements over time.
Our data show that long-term outcomes between virtual and in-person treatment are very similar.
In many cases, the most important factor is not the format itself, it’s having access to structured, skills-based care and staying engaged in the process.
Clients in both formats experience progress in areas such as:
- Depression
- Emotional regulation
- Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
- Quality of life
- Substance use
- Daily functioning
Choosing the right fit for you
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to DBT group format.
Some clients thrive in virtual programming. Others benefit more from the routine and environment of in-person care.
Our goal is to help you find the setting where you are most likely to feel supported, engaged, and successful.
During intake, we help assess:
- Clinical needs
- Level of support needed
- Scheduling considerations
- Accessibility barriers
- Personal preferences
- Program openings and availability
Getting started
Starting treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to decide what type of program is right for you.
Our team is here to help guide that process and answer questions along the way.
Whether you participate virtually or in person, you’ll receive structured support, practical DBT skills, and a caring clinical team focused on helping you build greater stability and confidence in everyday life.
Schedule an assessment with our team.
Call: 952-835-2002.
